Ards and Down Area Plan 2015Down District: Downpatrick Settlement

A Settlement Limit is designated in accordance with Policy SETT 1 in Volume 1 of the Plan and as indicated on Map No. 3/002a, Downpatrick Settlement Map.

The designated Settlement Limit is drawn to provide development opportunities in line with its role as a main town while protecting its natural setting.

To the west and north, the flat, open landscape of the Quoile marshes, interrupted by small hills and prominent archaeological landmarks, and the mature woodlands of Hollymount and Finnebrogue Estate, set Downpatrick in a uniquely attractive and historic landscape setting. The Quoile Pondage Basin to the north is a Nature Reserve and the Lecale Hills rise to the north and east. Development and outward growth of Downpatrick is therefore constrained by its landscape setting, by lands liable to flood and by the racecourse to the south-west.